Throughout its career, Alter Bridge has earned a loyal fanbase and critical recognition for their musicianship and songcraft. Despite its roots in Creed, Alter Bridge quickly differentiated itself with a more complex and experimental sound, often drawing comparisons to progressive rock acts. Their consistent touring and high-energy live performances have solidified their place as one of the most influential modern rock bands. Alter Bridge’s music has also been featured in movies and television, further extending their impact in pop culture. With each album, the band continued to evolve, blending melodic sensibilities with aggressive riffs and introspective lyrics.
Here is a closer look at the key members of Alter Bridge, focusing on their individual contributions to the band’s music and their career outside of the group.
Myles Kennedy
Myles Kennedy is the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for Alter Bridge. He joined the band in 2004, shortly after the formation of the group, and has remained with them ever since. Kennedy’s powerful, versatile voice is one of the defining characteristics of Alter Bridge’s sound, capable of conveying emotion in both soaring high notes and more subdued, gritty vocals. He contributed significantly to Alter Bridge’s early albums, including One Day Remains (2004) and Blackbird (2007), with his lyrics and vocals becoming central to the band’s identity. Kennedy is also a skilled rhythm guitarist, providing foundational guitar work alongside Tremonti’s lead guitar contributions.
Outside of Alter Bridge, Kennedy is perhaps best known for his role as the lead singer of Slash’s solo projects, including Slash (2010) and Apocalyptic Love (2012). He has also worked with other artists, notably collaborating with the band The Mayfield Four in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Kennedy’s ability to work across different styles, from hard rock to acoustic, has earned him respect as one of rock’s most talented and adaptable vocalists. His work in both Alter Bridge and other projects has garnered critical acclaim, and his live performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Mark Tremonti
Mark Tremonti is the lead guitarist and co-lead vocalist for Alter Bridge, forming the backbone of the band’s sound with his aggressive guitar playing and melodic sensibility. Tremonti co-founded the band in 2004 and has remained with Alter Bridge ever since. He is known for his fast, intricate riffs and solos, which have earned him recognition as one of modern rock’s most skilled guitarists. Tremonti played a significant role in writing the band’s music and lyrics, contributing to albums like One Day Remains (2004), Blackbird (2007), AB III (2010), and Fortress (2013). His dual role as a guitarist and co-vocalist adds another layer of depth to Alter Bridge’s sound, with his voice harmonizing with Kennedy’s in many tracks.
Tremonti is also the frontman of his eponymous band, Tremonti, where he serves as the lead vocalist and guitarist, further showcasing his abilities as a musician. He has also contributed to his previous band, Creed, playing guitar and contributing to the band’s songwriting. Tremonti’s work outside of Alter Bridge includes a solo career where he has released multiple albums, highlighting his musical versatility and commitment to expanding his sound beyond his work with Alter Bridge.
Brian Marshall
Brian Marshall is the bassist for Alter Bridge, joining the band in 2004 as a founding member. Marshall’s bass work provides the heavy, driving foundation for the band’s sound, with his technical proficiency and ability to complement Tremonti’s guitar style being integral to their music. Marshall was a member of Creed before the formation of Alter Bridge and brought his experience to the new group. His bass lines are prominent throughout Alter Bridge’s discography, including on albums like One Day Remains (2004) and Blackbird (2007), where his powerful and precise bass playing helped define the band’s hard rock sound.
Marshall left Alter Bridge after the One Day Remains album but rejoined the band in 2009 before the recording of AB III (2010). His return solidified the band’s lineup, and his bass playing has been featured on all subsequent Alter Bridge albums. Outside of his work with Alter Bridge and Creed, Marshall has occasionally performed with other artists, though his focus remains on the band. His contributions to the band’s sound remain a central element in Alter Bridge’s success.
Scott Phillips
Scott Phillips is the drummer and percussionist for Alter Bridge, playing a key role in the band’s rhythm section since its inception in 2004. Phillips’ drumming is a defining feature of Alter Bridge’s sound, with his ability to shift between powerful, high-energy beats and more subtle, intricate rhythms. His drumming on songs like “Open Your Eyes,” “Isolation,” and “Blackbird” showcases his versatility and skill, supporting the band’s complex song structures while maintaining a solid, driving force. Phillips also provides backing vocals, contributing to the band’s vocal harmonies.
Before joining Alter Bridge, Phillips was the drummer for Creed, playing on their successful albums My Own Prison (1997) and Human Clay (1999). After Creed’s disbandment, he co-founded Alter Bridge with Tremonti, Kennedy, and Marshall, continuing his career as a drummer with the band. Phillips’ steady presence behind the drums has helped maintain Alter Bridge’s consistent sound and powerful live performances, and his drumming remains an essential part of the band’s success.